ESPN and Marvel are joining forces for a groundbreaking collaboration!
Marvel and ESPN are launching the first-ever Marvel-inspired alternate presentation for the Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans game set to tip-off on Monday, May 3.
The telecast will integrate elements from an original Marvel story and iconic characters such as Iron Man, Black Panther, Captain Marvel, Captain America, Black Widow, and Doctor Strange appearing throughout the live game, including 3D virtual characters, custom graphics, and animation packages.
The story centers on , the Avengers receive an ominous threat from the enemy who vows to return in greater numbers and force after a narrow victory over an invading alien army. The Black Panther and Iron Man quickly realize they will need more help and form a plan to expand their ranks to fight this impending threat. Recognizing the superior physical abilities, agility, and tenacity of Earth’s greatest athletes, the Avengers will hold a series of contests where the winners earn the right to train and fight alongside them as Marvel’s Champions! The Avengers will begin their recruitment with the NBA elite and observe the battle between the Warriors and the Pelicans, focusing on three-star players from each team. The players involved are Golden State Warriors players Stephen Curry, three-time NBA Champion and two-time NBA MVP; Draymond Green, three-time NBA Champion; and Andrew Wiggins, 2014-15 NBA Rookie of the Year.
Representing the New Orleans Pelicans will be Zion Williamson, 2019 NBA Draft top pick; Brandon Ingram, 2019-20 NBA Most Improved Player; and Lonzo Ball, 2017-18 NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
Fans will be able to follow along as these athletes are put to the test, gaining Marvel Hero Points for their achievements and performance during the game using the following Scoring system:
- One Marvel Hero Point will be awarded for every point, rebound, assist, steal and block;
- One Marvel Hero Point will be deducted for every missed field goal, free throw or turnover.
The player with the most Marvel Hero Points on the winning team will be crowned as Marvel’s first Champion following the NBA Special Edition Presented by State Farm: Marvel’s Arena of Heroes.
Mike Pasciullo, vice president, marketing and communications, Marvel Entertainment said about this event:
“Marvel and ESPN have brought the worlds of sports and Super Heroes together for years through comics, documentaries, and other stories celebrating athletes and their extraordinary abilities.”
David Denenberg, NBA senior vice president, global media distribution & business affairs added:
“The new Marvel’s Arena of Heroes telecast will be the first of its kind to bring Marvel’s storytelling directly to the real-time experience of a NBA game, and we are excited for fans to be able to watch their favorite players through the lens of Marvel’s mightiest heroes. We are thrilled to work alongside ESPN and Marvel to present fans with the first-ever Marvel-inspired alternate NBA telecast.”
ESPN commentators Ryan Ruocco and Richard Jefferson will provide commentary in a fully customized Marvel-themed studio at ESPN’s Bristol, Conn. campus. Additionally, the special presentation will include commentary and analysis from Marvel expert Angélique Roché.
The traditional telecast of the Warriors vs. Pelicans game will be exclusive in the New Orleans market and will air simultaneously on ESPN. Dave Pasch will call the action with analyst Mark Jackson and reporter Cassidy Hubbarth on site in New Orleans.
Both the NBA Special Edition Presented by State Farm: Marvel’s Arena of Heroes alternate presentation and the traditional game telecast will stream via the ESPN App.